The Central Bank of Nigeria’s electronic payment statistics have shown that, between January and June 2024, 252.06 million transactions, which amounted to N2.19tn, were carried out via Unstructured Supplementary Service Data codes.

This is a significant milestone compared to the full-year data for 2023, which showed that N4.84tn was transacted via USSD codes across 630.6 million transactions.

The N2.19tn recorded in the first half of 2024 represents 45.3 per cent of the total value of USSD transactions in 2023 and 40 per cent of the total transaction volume for the same year.

Initially developed by telecom companies for providing airtime and subscription services, the USSD service has been widely adopted in the banking sector because it does not require an Internet connection.

USSD codes continue to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s financial inclusion strategy, offering a platform for users with limited internet access to make quick and convenient transactions.

This is especially important in rural areas, where internet connectivity remains unreliable.

However, this form of transaction has been threatened by over N250bn debt, which has been a contentious issue for the past six years, prompting past interventions from the Central Bank of Nigeria under Godwin Emefiele’s leadership and the former Minister of Communications, Isa Pantami, but no lasting solution has been reached.

The Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, Gbenga Adebayo, earlier lamented that banks have been profiting from USSD services without fulfilling their payment obligations in the last six years.

Last month, The PUNCH reported that telecom operators in Nigeria were seeing some progress in the repayment of the N250bn debt tied to Unstructured Supplementary Service Data services, with smaller banks beginning to settle their obligations.

However, tier-one lenders responsible for the bulk of the debt are yet to make significant payments.

At the time, the ALTON chairman disclosed that while some repayments have been recorded, they fall short of expectations.

While USSD remains a dominant channel amidst existing challenges, other electronic payment methods have also seen substantial growth.

Automated Teller Machine  transactions have experienced a remarkable volume, with N12.21tn transacted in the first half of 2024 for 496.44 million transactions.

Point-of-sale transactions are also significant, indicating the country’s ongoing shift towards cashless payments.

A newly wedded couple who were returning from the Ikoyi Marriage Registry alongside 16 other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries following a multi-vehicle collision on Third Mainland Bridge, Lagos State on Saturday.

This was confirmed in a statement by the spokesperson for the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Adebayo Taofiq, on Saturday.

Taofiq stated that the accident occurred when an LT bus developed brake failure while at speed and collided with a mini truck.

The impact of the collision was said to have led to the occupants of both vehicles sustaining varying degrees of injuries including fractured limbs.

He identified the vehicles involved as a mini truck with number plate AGL 22 YE and a commercial LT bus with number plate BFG 204 XF.

Taofiq said, “The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, in collaboration with emergency response agencies, today orchestrated the successful rescue of 18 individuals involved in a serious vehicular collision on the Third Mainland Bridge, near Ilaje, heading towards Iyana Oworonsoki.

“Among the victims were a newlywed couple returning to the mainland from the Ikoyi Marriage Registry.

“The accident, which involved a mini truck (AGL 22 YE) and a commercial LT bus (BFG 204 XF), was attributed to a brake failure on the LT bus, which was travelling at excessive speed. The bus collided with the mini truck, which was moving slowly due to mechanical difficulties.

“A total of 16 passengers seated in the rear of the LT bus, 11 women and 5 men, sustained significant injuries and were swiftly transported to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre near the Toll Gate on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway for urgent medical care.”

He added that two of the victims suffered severe injuries after being trapped in the wreckage of the LT bus and “Were extricated with the combined efforts of LASTMA personnel, emergency responders, and concerned bystanders. These victims were later rushed to Gbagada General Hospital for specialised treatment.”

Reacting to the incident, the LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed sympathy for the injured victims while urging road users to always exercise caution on the highway.

Bakare-Oki who spoke through Taofiq stressed that the ongoing enlightenment by the LASTMA’s Female Elite Corps is aimed at promoting safety on Lagos roads ahead of the festivity.

“Expressing deep sympathy for the injured, LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, wished them a speedy recovery. He also underscored the importance of observing speed limits and maintaining vehicles in optimal condition, particularly the braking system, to prevent such tragedies.

“Mr Bakare-Oki further highlighted the intensified public enlightenment campaigns led by LASTMA’s Female Elite Corps, which aim to educate motorists—especially commercial bus operators—on safe driving practices before, during, and beyond the festive season,” Taofiq stated.

Emergency responders at the scene of the incident, according to Taofiq, were LASTMA personnel, LASEMA, LASAMBUS and the police.

The Pastor-in-Charge of Youth Province One, The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Joseph Palace, FESTAC, Lagos, Leke Adeboye, has declared that fueling the free buses providing transportation between Lagos and Ogun States to Nigerians cost the church over N63m in just seven weeks.

The initiative, spearheaded by the church, involved 10 buses shuttling commuters between key routes in Lagos, including 7up, Victoria Island, FESTAC, CMS, Ikorodu and Mowe in Ogun State.

Adeboye told our correspondent on Saturday that in addition to covering transportation, RCCG ensured the welfare of drivers and volunteers who utilised the waiting period to preach messages from Open Heavens, the church’s daily devotional also cost N10m.

He revealed that each bus carried 80 passengers per trip, completing two daily trips, five days a week.

Also, over the period, the buses transported an estimated 56,000 people, cutting down commuting costs significantly for Nigerians of all backgrounds, including Christians, Muslims, atheists, military personnel, students, and law enforcement officers.

According to Adeboye, this initiative saved each passenger an average of ₦40,000 weekly.

“The buses were accessed by everyone, regardless of religion or social status. It was our way of easing the financial burden on Nigerians. Fueling alone cost over N63m.

“The free buses were entered by all, Nigerians and non-Christians, Muslims, traditionalists, atheists, Twitter warriors and abusers and accusers of the church. Students, military persons and everyone from all works of life.”

“The buses have also served students, military personnel, and law enforcement officers—both in and out of uniform—as well as less privileged groups like area boys and agberos, we spent N10m on this.

“The free bus initiative has been open to all Nigerians and even non-Nigerians, irrespective of their faith or status. It is a testament to the church’s commitment to serving humanity without discrimination. 10 buses x 80 souls x 2 trips per day x 5 working days a week. What number did you get?, ” Adeboye said.

The province, in September, announced in a statement that “The initiative aims to ease transportation costs while also providing spiritual care and guidance.

The statement disclosed that buses will depart from Mowe, Ibafo, Berger, and 7UP at Car Park C (near Redemption City) to CMS, as well as from Festac, RCCG Joseph’s Palace, Apple Junction, to Victoria Island and Lekki.”

Nigerian music star, Davido has finally broken his silence following Wizkid’s shades on social media.

The drama began when Davido announced his upcoming album, “5ive,” and a new single, “Fund,” featuring Chike and Odumodu Blvck.

Wizkid, seemingly unfazed by the news, took to Twitter to post a cryptic laughing emoji.

The tweet, which has since been deleted, sparked a frenzy among fans, with many 30BG enthusiasts calling out Wizkid for his perceived shade.

Undeterred by the criticism, Davido responded with a tweet that grabbed the attention of many.

The DMW boss shared lyrics from “Unavailable,” a track off his fourth studio album, “Timeless.”

The lyrics suggest that Davido is impervious to the opinions of others.

In his words:

“And I sorry for who wan, who wan Who wan gbe my matter s’ori.”

See the post below:

A few days back, Wizkid appeared to have reignited tension on social media by throwing a hot shade once more.

Starboy who has been on the tail of his colleague, Davido for some months took to his X handle where he posted a suggestive and derogatory statement that triggered buzz online.

Without mentioning any name, Wizkid wrote: “I tell you b4 Oloshi! Only inside ur house!”

Although the statement wasn’t directed to anyone, cybernauts swung into action, concluding that Wizkid was referring to Davido.

This is in light of a previous tweet in which Wizkid ruthlessly slammed Davido, stating that he’s 001 in his home alone.

Wizkid had said:

“Naija is a place the rich weaponize poverty so u carry all these broke boys in real life and get dem visa so they worship u and not tell u abt yourself. Call u 001 u delusional fuck aye u idiot! The only time u’re 001 is when u’re in your house. U’re not 001 of nothing but instagram followers! U don’t make money than any body in Nigeria in music! Cheap guy! Everything about u screams cheap!”

Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, a Nigerian clinical associate professor of medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland, has been elected as the president-elect of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA).

According to a statement ofmn the Association’s website, Dr. Ogunyemi, a practicing medical dermatologist in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and a visiting specialist in Labrador City since 2018, won the election in a vote that took place from Nov. 20 to Dec. 4.

The election saw eligible CMA members in Newfoundland and Labrador decide between Dr. Ogunyemi and Dr. Susan MacDonald, a renowned champion of palliative care.

Speaking after his victory, Dr. Ogunyemi stated, “My 15 years of experience in medical leadership have equipped me with valuable insights into the pressing issues our healthcare system faces, and as CMA president-elect, I will advocate for a unified profession, a strong healthcare system, and healthier communities.”

Pending approval at the CMA’s Annual General Meeting in May 2025, Dr. Ogunyemi will assume the role of president-elect before becoming president for a one-year term in May 2026.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasized the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s tax administration system, citing taxpayers’ attitudes towards taxation as a key challenge.

Idris made this statement while serving as Chairman at the 2024 Annual Public Lecture, AGM, and Awards of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Kaduna State chapter. 

The event, held under the theme “Tax Reform: The Role of Public Relations in Fostering Constructive Dialogue for National Economic Renaissance,” brought together stakeholders to discuss the proposed Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly.

The Minister highlighted the importance of reforming the tax system to enhance national economic growth, underscoring the critical role of public relations in facilitating meaningful dialogue and fostering public trust.

He stated: “The theme has brought to the fore yet again, the place of constructive dialogue as a vital pillar of democracy while noting that the ongoing review of the country’s tax laws is timely and crucial, especially as part of a larger set of macroeconomic reforms, just as he commended the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reform for an excellent job, in terms of public engagement.

According to the Minister, “The topic before us today is a sensitive yet important and inescapable one: taxation. It was the American statesman, Benjamin Franklin, who famously said that “In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.

“Let me make it clear that, even with our keenness for fundamental reform of Nigeria’s governance and fiscal systems, the Tinubu administration will never do anything to undermine the ideals of participatory democracy. The current mandate and responsibility that we have for governing and reforming Nigeria at this time came by way of democracy, and we will continue to live up to those very high democratic standards and expectations.

“All over the world, effective taxation is important as a source of financial power for governments to provide social services for their citizens. However, there is plenty of reason to believe and assert that Nigeria’s tax administration system has become long overdue for reform, on account of design and implementation flaws as well as the general attitudes of taxpayers toward taxation.

“In light of this, the ongoing review of the country’s tax laws and realities is timely and crucial, especially as part of a larger set of macroeconomic reforms aimed at setting the country on an irreversible path of growth and development. The full details of the new tax bills are available in the public domain – one must commend the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reform for an excellent job in this regard, in terms of public engagement – so I will not attempt to go over these details again here.

“What I will say is that it is very inspiring and heartwarming to see Nigerians from all walks of life coming out to express their views and opinions on these matters of critical national importance, as such is the very essence and meaning of democracy. In spite of the challenge of trust deficit that tends to crop up around matters of governance in Nigeria, we have still been able to have what can be adjudged as robust debate on this sensitive issue.

“President Tinubu has also been very clear that the Executive will listen to and work with all stakeholders to ensure that all concerns are duly and comprehensively addressed. We will continue to ensure open lines of communication and engagement with the National Assembly and all other stakeholders on these taxation bills. We are all in this together, as one people, one nation, and just as we are being called upon to make collective sacrifices, we will also collectively reap the abundant social and economic benefits of all of these necessary reforms.

“It is at times like this that we are reminded of the important roles of Public Relations in the maintenance of a functioning and healthy society. By facilitating purposeful communication, building mutual understanding, and transparent promotion of ideas, Public Relations practice and practitioners can help create a culture of collaboration and progress.

“Also, as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to implement an ambitious fiscal reform agenda that will devolve more resources to Nigeria’s State and Local Governments, and ultimately to the Nigerian people, in the spirit of true federalism, citizen engagement will become ever more critical.

“Those of us who manage communications for the Federal Government understand that we have a lot of work on our hands. We are up to the task, and we will continue to deploy innovative and comprehensive mechanisms to provide the public with insights and enlightened information that will bolster public trust and confidence in the reform narratives of the Renewed Hope agenda.

“We will also be looking to count on the strong support of the NIPR, among many other stakeholders. Which is why this dialogue is very much welcome, and commendable.

“Society advances by mutually respectful engagements, where we give voice to diverse opinions, and respect those who we disagree with. We will certainly not always agree on all issues, perhaps not even on most. But we will always be guided by the fact that the things that unite us – our common humanity, our nationhood, our sense of patriotism, our collective vision for a Nigeria that works for all – will always be more important and more meaningful than our differences of age, religion, region, ideology, gender, culture, and social class,” the Minister said.

Earlier, the President of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku pleaded the institute’s support for the expected reality and implementation of the tax reform in the country by using the vocal voices of the institute across the country.

Also the Lead Discussant, Professor Mustapha Bagudo Muhammad gave a thorough insight into the numerous advantages of the reform while all the Panelists including Senator Shehu Sani, Professor Cosmos Eze and Professor Hauwa’u Evelyn Yusuf all gave their nod to the proposed tax reform.

Senator Sani in his submission said, countries like Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates have started taking measures to address their post oil feature, adding that the Tax Reform is one of the very important steps for Nigeria and Nigerian economic feature.

Speaking also, Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and former Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Kaduna State, Rev. Dr. John Joseph Hayab both argued that the tax reform was necessary, however called for more awareness creation and sensitization.

The senior pastor of House on the Rock Church, Paul Adefarasin, has revealed that the depreciation of the naira has led to a significant economic downturn, causing the church to spend eight times what it cost to organise Experience 19.

He revealed this during a press briefing ahead of the Experience concert, which took place on Friday night in Lagos.

Adefarasin emphasised the undeniable impact of the economic downturn, stating, “The Nigerian economy is getting tougher; it takes someone who believes in God to organise this. What we spent last year is now eight times that amount this year because of the naira depreciation.”

He continued, “For 19 remarkable years, we have gathered—under the open skies of Tafawa Balewa Square and in countless homes across the world—to partake in a divine encounter. THE EXPERIENCE has transcended its beginnings as a local gathering, growing into a global phenomenon that bears witness to the unfailing faithfulness of God.

“Millions join us each year, united in worship, with one purpose: to glorify the name above all names—Jesus Christ, the King of kings. The lights that pierce the night—from raised hands, glowing screens, and illuminated faces at the TBS—are more than fleeting visuals. They epitomise hope, unity, and a shared testament to the transformative power of faith in God. Whether you are here in Lagos or joining from across the oceans, we are one people, with one heart, one voice, and one victorious proclamation: JESUS WINS.

“What began as a vision 19 years ago has evolved into a movement of eternal significance. THE EXPERIENCE is more than an event; it is a sacred moment where worship converges with unity, where borders blur, and the divine speaks.

“Though our themes may differ from year to year, the foundation remains steadfast. Every melody sung, every prayer lifted, every hand raised to heaven announces the enduring truth that it has always been—and will always be—all about Jesus.

“As you reflect on these words, consider the far-reaching impact of this throng—not just for those who are present, but for a world yearning for better nations and a more sincere, hopeful existence.

“THE EXPERIENCE is a celebration of faith’s resilience, a movement that transcends trials to attest to the unshakeable truth that, regardless of the circumstances we endure or the darkness that confronts us, we stand unshaken in the certain knowledge that Jesus, the Light of the world, always wins.”

The highly anticipated concert featured a host of award-winning international and Nigerian gospel artists, who delivered soul-lifting performances, adding credibility to the widely viewed annual event.

As the world continues to battle the constantly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, new variants of the virus are emerging, each presenting unique challenges.

One such variant is the recently identified XEC strain, which has raised concerns due to its potential impact on global public health.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

COVID-19 can cause mild to severe respiratory illness, including death.

The first known case was identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been a number of prominent variants, including Alpha, Beta, Delta, Omicron, and XEC.

The XEC strain was first detected in Germany in June 2024 and has since spread to 27 countries.

It has been found in several countries across Europe, Asia, and North America, with at least 600 confirmed cases in the past four months.

Countries affected include Germany, France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Canada, China, Norway, Poland, and the Netherlands.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that the XEC strain is a subvariant of the Omicron lineage of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Like other variants, the XEC strain has raised concerns due to its potential for increased transmissibility and partial immune escape.

This means that individuals who have been infected with previous strains or who have been vaccinated may still be at risk of reinfection.

However, vaccines remain the most effective defence against severe illness.

The WHO further explained that the XEC strain, like other COVID-19 variants, primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the XEC strain is a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants.

Surveillance data from the UKHSA indicates that the admission rate for patients testing positive for all strains rose to 4.5 per 100,000 people in the week leading up to October 6, 2024.

Experts believe the XEC strain is more transmissible due to its numerous mutations. Symptoms of this strain are similar to those of other COVID-19 variants, including fatigue, headaches, sore throat, and high temperatures.

Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, noted, “Our current surveillance shows that around 13 per cent of sequenced COVID-19 cases are of the XEC lineage.

However, current information doesn’t suggest we should be more concerned about this variant. We are monitoring it closely, and vaccination still offers the best protection.”

While the symptoms of the XEC strain are generally similar to those of other COVID-19 variants, they can range from mild to severe.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell. Some individuals, especially those with underlying health conditions, may experience more severe complications.

The elderly and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable to the more severe effects of the virus.

In Nigeria, experts are urging the public to remain vigilant and informed about this new strain, which could alter the course of the ongoing fight against the virus.

Although the XEC strain has not been officially reported in Nigeria, the Coordinating Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has been monitoring the situation closely and is advising healthcare providers to be cautious.

The Ministry emphasised the importance of precautionary measures to prevent the potential spread of the variant into Nigeria.

Experts stressed that vaccines remain the most effective tool in protecting against severe disease.

With Nigeria’s vaccination drive ongoing, citizens were strongly encouraged to participate.

Dr Adesola Adebayo, a public health expert, highlighted the continued importance of following public health guidelines:

“The emergence of the XEC strain is a reminder that the pandemic is far from over.

“It’s crucial that Nigerians continue to adhere to safety guidelines and take personal responsibility in preventing the spread of COVID-19.”

Adebayo further stated, “Vaccination, adherence to safety protocols, and public health measures remain essential in protecting ourselves and our communities.”

According to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Nigerians can access the COVID-19 vaccine at public and designated private health facilities, COVID-19 diagnostic centres, motor parks, shopping malls, markets, event centres, and schools.

Amongst others were public places across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The XEC strain serves as a stark reminder that the battle against COVID-19 is ongoing.

Hence, Nigerians are urged to stay informed, get vaccinated, and adhere to public health guidelines to protect themselves and their communities from this evolving threat. (NAN)

Something truly intriguing unfolded this week in the bustling city of Abuja. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken over a massive estate comprising 753 duplexes, sparking widespread curiosity and questions.

This situation goes beyond mere buildings; it tells a short tale filled with secrets and suspense that has captured the attention of the entire nation. 

Imagine a sprawling estate, covering a vast 150,500 square metres in the Lokogoma District of Abuja. This area boasts 753 exquisite duplexes, but there’s a mysterious story behind them.

The EFCC believes these properties are linked to a former powerful government official suspected of using illicit funds to acquire them. Now, the EFCC has stepped in to take action. The sheer size of the estate marks it as the largest single asset recovery in the EFCC’s 21-year history.

Led by Chairman Ola Olukoyede, the EFCC successfully secured a court order last Monday to take control of these properties. However, what makes this case even more intriguing is that the identity of this former official has not been formally disclosed to the public.

This secrecy has sparked curiosity and even a hint of suspicion among the people. Journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens are questioning why the EFCC is withholding this information.

In response, the EFCC has stated that they are currently focusing on the properties as they piece together the full story. While this approach is strategic, it has left the public eager for further details.

The excitement peaked when Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie supported the EFCC’s decision to seize the properties, marking a significant victory for the commission in its fight against corruption.

Nonetheless, this ruling has left many waiting anxiously for more information. Who is the mysterious figure behind these duplexes? What fraud did he commit? How? How much was involved? What kind of embezzlement? Is he in jail or at large? Which ministry or government department did he defraud to build that estate? What is the worth of that estate?

The EFCC explains that they must adhere to legal protocols to ensure the investigation is conducted properly. This careful approach is vital for maintaining the integrity of the process.

Across Nigeria, this story has become the talk of the town. Many people are applauding the EFCC, believing they are effectively combating corruption and safeguarding Nigeria’s resources. These supporters view the seizure as a positive step towards accountability and justice. However, others, such as activist Omowole Sowore, argue that the EFCC should be more transparent about what they know.

This debate has sparked lively discussions, with everyone eager to learn more about the unfolding situation. The public’s demand for transparency underscores the importance of open communication in significant cases like this. As the dust begins to settle, calls for greater transparency and honesty are growing louder.

Mr Ola Olukoyede has emphasised the crucial need to reclaim assets like these to halt corruption in its tracks. He sees asset recovery as a key tool in preventing corrupt individuals from reaping the benefits of their unlawful activities.

Despite this, the public remains on edge, awaiting the next chapter of this unfolding story. This situation is not merely about a collection of houses; it pertains to ensuring that Nigeria remains fair and just for all its citizens. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future actions against corruption.

So, as you reflect on this intriguing story, remember: fighting corruption is not solely the EFCC’s responsibility; it is something we can all play a part in. Stay curious, ask questions, and hold our leaders accountable. And who knows? Perhaps one day, you’ll be the one helping to unravel a significant mystery—just kidding (or perhaps not)!

But in all seriousness, let’s continue to advocate for the truth and work collectively to improve Nigeria. Our vigilance and demand for accountability will help ensure that justice prevails and that our nation continues to thrive.